Lifeline Theatre Opens Annual BIPOC Adaptation Workshop
Chicago theater invites local BIPOC writers to submit applications for its professional adaptation development program.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Arts Theater — General
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Lifeline Theatre has opened submissions for its sixth annual adaptation workshop, a program designed to support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color writers in Chicago. Participants receive professional developmental support, including a stipend and casting assistance for their work.
Why it matters
The program provides a dedicated platform for underrepresented voices to refine their skills in adapting literary works for the stage. By offering administrative and casting support, the theater aims to bridge gaps for writers navigating the professional production process.
Lifeline Theatre has produced more than 140 world premiere adaptations since its founding in 1982. The company, which expanded to include its KidSeries plays in 1987, continues to operate out of its location at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
The players
Lifeline Theatre
This Chicago-based theater organization is known for its extensive history of developing world premiere adaptations.
The details
Writers interested in the program must submit their applications through an online form before the November deadline. Finalists are then selected to undergo an interview process before the final group of playwrights is announced for the workshop, which concludes with a public presentation.
Timeline
Applications for the program close on November 20, 2026.
Finalists will be notified on January 8, 2027.
Interviews with finalists are scheduled for January 9-15, 2027.
The selected workshop playwrights will be announced January 22, 2027.
Industry Dynamics
This program aligns with the Lifeline Theatre adaptation model, which has driven the company's output for decades. By formalizing developmental support for BIPOC writers, the theater adapts its long-standing focus on literary stage work to current industry calls for greater inclusion.
Local writers gain a pathway to professional developmental support and potential casting resources through this application process. Once the workshop concludes, audiences gain access to new works through public presentations of the adapted material.
The takeaway
The theater’s commitment to new voices demonstrates the ongoing importance of institutional support in developing complex stage adaptations. Aspiring playwrights should prepare their materials early to meet the firm November deadline for submission.
What happens next
Applicants must submit their materials by November 20, 2026, with the final cohort of writers set to be announced on January 22, 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the local stage scene in the Arts Theater — General section.
More information
To apply for this opportunity, complete the Adaptation workshop application form.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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